Woman Facing Jail Time for Mocking K-Pop Idol's Voice on Social Media Begs Court for Leniency: 'I Have a Mental Illness That Impacts My Writing Skills'

A South Korean woman is facing jail time for mocking a K-pop star's voice on social media, but she is asking the court for leniency, claiming she has a mental illness that impacts her writing abilities.

The woman identified as Kim attended her final hearing on Tuesday before the verdict will be announced. Kim was indicted on charges of defamation over comments she made about singer IU's voice on social media in April 2022, as reported by Maeil Business Newspaper.

"I was merely expressing personal preferences. I have a mental illness that impacts my writing skills, and I ask for leniency," Kim told the court, as reported by allkpop.

Kim's lawyer argued that while the statements may have been insulting to IU, there was not enough ground for defamation.

Prosecutors are seeking a four-month prison sentence. Kim is due back at the Seoul Central District Court on Dec. 3 for the verdict.

IU's agency, EDAM Entertainment, previously stated that they would be pursuing legal action over various kinds of defamatory posts or content, including threats, defamation, violations of privacy, sexual harassment and distribution of obscene materials. So far the agency has reported about 180 individuals, as reported by allkpop.